Universal basic income isn't just an idea anymore: it's a reality. For a number of countries including Finland, Italy, Uganda, Kenya, and soon Canada, some form of UBI, where citizens receive an unconditional monthly income, is being tested.

As our automated future appears to inch nearer, proponents argue a UBI would ensure stability for workers, and reduce inequality by alleviating poverty and making resources more widely available.

But opponents are quick to argue that citizens will be disincentivized from working if they have a guaranteed income, and that retraining and education will combat automation more constructively. Not to mention the economic impact of paying out large sums to each citizen.

Tonight we put these points to the test, debating the motion:

The Universal Basic Income Is The Safety Net Of The Future

Arguing in favor of the motion are Charles Murray, W.H. Brady Scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, and Andrew Stern, former president of the Service Employees International Union and senior fellow at the Economic Security Project.

Opposing them: Jared Bernstein, senior fellow for the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities and former chief economist to Vice President Joe Biden, and Jason Furman, senior fellow for the Peterson Institute and former chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers.

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